Rendering: KFA Architecture
The design metamorphosis of 1338 5th Street has reached its final stage. A fourth iteration of the six-story rental building by WS Communities has been unveiled with alterations based on the feedback of the Santa Monica Architectural Review Board.
According to the published agenda for the July 20th meeting, the Associate Planner at the City of Santa Monica, Michael Rocque, will recommend the application’s approval to the board.
The latest rendering for 1338 5th Street showcases slightly larger balconies that are on a less severe angle. The façade has been softened and simplified with a frame around the street-facing residences that “[creates] a basket weave/egg-crate effect.”
The rooftop trellis, which previously mimicked the design of the angular balconies, has been reimagined and positioned farther back so that it’s no longer visible from the street. The two-story storefront glazing has been emphasized using dark grey metal panels to differentiate it from the residential component.
The footprint of the east roof deck, positioned just above the commercial spaces, was also enlarged by approximately 340 square feet to “[provide] an ample amount of social and gathering space for both guests and residents to enjoy.”
1338 5th Street will include 94 single room occupancy (SRO) units, 26 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, 2,703 square feet of ground-floor commercial space, and four levels of underground parking with 116 vehicle spaces.
Onsite resident amenities will include a lobby with a concierge desk and leasing office. An indoor lounge on the ground floor provides direct access to a landscaped central courtyard, complete with a fire pit, dining tables, casual seating, pergola and planters.
The east roof deck will feature bistro tables, bench seating, ping pong and other game tables, plus outdoor heat lamps. Meantime, the west roof deck will tout fire pits, lounge seating, bar tables with stools, an outdoor kitchen and grill, and planting areas.
Despite its numerous design tweaks, the modern infill project has moved through the approval process swiftly because of a settlement agreement between WS Communities and the City of Santa Monica to increase the supply of affordable housing. 1338 5th Street, in particular, will include 19 units reserved for low-income tenants — 14 SROs and six one-bedroom units.
